Varuna

Description

Varuna is a Vedic deity who rules over the oceans and watercycles in Hindu mythology. He is often portrayed as an omniscient and wise king, riding upon the makara – a mythical sea creature.

As a guardian of the cosmic order known as rta, Varuna watches over morality and truth. He is depicted as both merciful and punitive, capable of forgiving sin but also tying wrongdoers to his golden noose to enact justice.

Varuna is closely associated with the life-giving properties of water. He governs the water elements – rivers, seas, rainfall – and oversees the changing tides and seasons. Prayers are offered to Varuna for abundant rains and protection at sea.

In some texts, Varuna is considered one of the Ashtadikpalas – the guardian of the west direction. He is said to live in an underwater palace of serpents and gems, from where he keeps watch over the cosmos.

As one of the oldest Vedic deities, Varuna offers insight into early Hindu mythology and cosmology. He is a prominent deity of ethics, justice and the water cycle, playing a vital role in maintaining the natural and moral order.